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Saint Charles Campground
National Forest

Saint Charles Campground

Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
4.3 (25 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Saint Charles Campground

Campground in Idaho.

Nestled in the heart of Idaho's natural splendor, Saint Charles Campground offers RV travelers an authentic escape into the wilderness while maintaining convenient access to essential amenities. This national forest campground serves as an ideal base camp for adventurers seeking to explore some of the region's most pristine landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.

The campground's location places you in close proximity to some of Idaho's most celebrated natural attractions and outdoor activities. Fishing enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities in nearby streams and lakes, where mountain waters teem with native trout species. Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels wind through the surrounding forest, offering everything from leisurely nature walks to challenging alpine adventures. The area's diverse terrain provides stunning vistas of forested hillsides, rocky outcrops, and distant mountain peaks that shift in character with the changing light throughout the day.

What makes this location particularly appealing is the blend of accessibility and authentic wilderness experience. Unlike heavily developed RV parks, Saint Charles Campground maintains the character and charm of national forest camping while accommodating RV travelers who want to explore remote areas without sacrificing reasonable conveniences. The surrounding national forest provides miles of undeveloped landscape where wildlife sightings are common and the night sky remains refreshingly free from light pollution.

The region around the campground showcases classic Idaho mountain scenery with dense conifer forests, clearings filled with wildflowers during summer months, and air that feels noticeably fresher and crisper than lower elevations. Photographers will find endless subjects, from wildlife and wildflowers to dramatic forest and mountain compositions. Those seeking solitude and connection with nature will appreciate the quieter, more peaceful atmosphere compared to busy commercial campgrounds.

This destination works particularly well for families wanting to introduce children to camping, outdoor enthusiasts pursuing fishing and hiking, and anyone needing a genuine retreat from busy routines. The national forest setting provides educational opportunities about ecosystems, forestry, and conservation while offering genuine adventure and discovery.
4.3

Rating

25

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Lava Hot Springs is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Idaho weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Lava Hot Springs.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Lava Hot Springs. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Saint Charles Campground Reviews

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Cody Neville

Mar 23, 2026

1.0

Google Review by Cody Neville

Went today to look at a site I have booked for the end of the month. The mens room has a broken sink, urinal, and the toilet stall doesn't have a latch. The camp host was no where to be found. I am going to try and rebook elsewhere. :( The tables are looking horrible too. You would probabaly get a sliver if you sat on them. They need work! We stayed at Paris Springs last month and it is WAY better... Went today to look at a site I have booked for the end of the month. The mens room has a broken sink, urinal, and the toilet stall doesn't have a latch. The camp host was no where to be found. I am going to try and rebook elsewhere. :( The tables are looking horrible too. You would probabaly get a sliver if you sat on them. They need work! We stayed at Paris Springs last month and it is WAY better taken care of, even though this year the bathrooms were no where as clean as last year.

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Adriana Hoopes

Mar 23, 2026

1.0

Google Review by Adriana Hoopes

The camp host/person who collected the payment envelope was awful. He lost our payment envelope, and instead of letting us explain that we had paid he threw a fit on us. He threatened to call the cops to remove us even though we had paid. He then proceeded to call us cons and liars, swearing all over the place, and started taking steps toward us. This whole time we’re trying to explain we already... The camp host/person who collected the payment envelope was awful. He lost our payment envelope, and instead of letting us explain that we had paid he threw a fit on us. He threatened to call the cops to remove us even though we had paid. He then proceeded to call us cons and liars, swearing all over the place, and started taking steps toward us. This whole time we’re trying to explain we already paid and didn’t have any more cash on us but could run to the ATM. He was very aggressive and disrespectful. On top of that, the campsite itself was gross. There was litter everywhere. I will never be back here, not worth the price.

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Ester Wilhelm

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Ester Wilhelm

This campground is wonderful, if you want wilderness experience. Hiking is available also. Be careful of bears and other animals.

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Ryan Saunders

Mar 23, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Ryan Saunders

Campground is nice and the bathrooms are good for being campground. The spots are first come first serve so they are hard to get as the Bear lake crowd snaps them up quickly. Negative points are the "Group site". we had two camp trailers and there was no way to fit them in the space provided. We ended have to split up and one group get a airB&B. Also most of the other sites pretty short not great... Campground is nice and the bathrooms are good for being campground. The spots are first come first serve so they are hard to get as the Bear lake crowd snaps them up quickly. Negative points are the "Group site". we had two camp trailers and there was no way to fit them in the space provided. We ended have to split up and one group get a airB&B. Also most of the other sites pretty short not great for long trailers.

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Idaho Dad

Mar 23, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Idaho Dad

Small camp ground that is fairly close to the north shore of Bear lake. It is close to the road and it seems to have a lot of traffic coming and going from other campsites and Minnetonka caves. There is a small creek (St. Charles Creek) that is right by a few of the camp sights making it fun for the kids.

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